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Hematochezia In Dogs: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatments

Hematochezia in dogs refers to the appearance of bright red blood in the stool. Usually this happens when bleeding occurs in dogs’ lower digestive system, including the colon and rectum. Melena, which refers to the appearance of black, tarry feces, is a different condition where old blood that has been digested is passed, usually resulting from bleeding in the upper digestive tract, though this is not always the case. Hematochezia can be a symptom of anything from a dog swallowing a small object like a piece of bone or plastic toy to more serious medical conditions like tumors in the digestive tract. Sometimes blood is seen in the feces only once and doesn’t require medical treatment for the condition to resolve itself; however, if hematochezia is persistent and blood continues to appear in a dog’s stool, it shouldn’t be ignored. If you see the symptoms of hematochezia in your dog consistently, consult your veterinarian immediately so they can give a proper diagnosis and begin treatment. Here is what you should know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of hematochezia in dogs.

Symptoms Of Hematochezia In Dogs

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The primary symptom of hematochezia in dogs is the appearance of bright red blood in the feces. Stools may be loose and watery or fully formed, and they can be discolored or normal looking depending on the cause of the condition. Dogs may show signs of straining to defecate, defecate more frequently, or show signs of other illness. On the other hand, they may show no other symptoms at all. Again, this depends on the cause.

Blood may appear as a few droplets or streaks, and it can either be mixed in with the feces or lie on top of it. The blood can appear one time, intermittently, or consistently every time a dog defecates. If it appears more than once, it should be treated seriously, and a veterinarian should be consulted.

Causes of Hematochezia In Dogs

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The causes of hematochezia in dogs range from mild to severe, which is why it is important to get a proper diagnosis. Typically the cause is a condition that affects the lower intestinal tract because blood that comes from conditions that affect the upper digestive tract is usually at least partially digested and appears black and tarry when it passes. Here are several possible causes of hematochezia in dogs.

Treatments For Hematochezia In Dogs

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Treatment for hematochezia in dogs can vary widely depending on the cause of the condition. Treatment for minor conditions can include dietary changes, probiotics, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, or laxatives. For more severe medical conditions, dogs may need hospitalization and intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration and intervention to stop internal bleeding. Conditions such as cancer or polyps may require surgical intervention.

If your dog suffers from hematochezia, your veterinarian will prescribe the appropriate treatment after forming a diagnoses. Because the causes vary so much and can be life-threatening, treatment needs to be individualized and should begin early. Do not leave it up to chance if your dog has blood in their stool. Get to the veterinarian and get the right treatment.